The 7 Biggest Misconceptions About Steel Frame Roofs

Although steel has firmly cemented itself as a preferred material for a multitude of building projects, there are still a variety of misconceptions surrounding its features, properties and use. 

The below overview takes a deeper look into some of these myths and offers the corrected facts to better help you decide if a steel frame roof truss solution is right for your next project.

Misconception 1: “It’s hard to create a custom solution with steel”

Our team of experts will be able to tell you firsthand that steel is actually one of the most easily customisable materials on the market!

Whatever the size or type of building you want to construct, we can utilise advanced 3D modelling software to produce detailed layouts and plans based on custom specs. 

In fact, it’s actually easier to produce certain designs in steel than some other materials that pose difficulties. Plus, there’s the added benefit that steel roofs won’t sag or experience any rippling effects.

Misconception 2: “Steel isn’t well suited to “non-industrial” projects”

Steel frame roofs are certainly great for industrial projects, but also versatile enough to suit all kinds of roof cladding and architectural themes – from innovative, modern building designs to more traditional construction styles. 

Steel has already been used in commercial buildings for decades (thanks to its many features and benefits), and we are seeing it become increasingly selected and applied to a variety of other builds because of this.

The proof is in the project – at Cortek we have successfully used steel frame roofing across a diverse range of builds; including the education sector, shopping centres, community centres, aged care and more. quality steel, the fabrication process for all of the roof truss frames

Misconception 3: “Lightweight steel is ineffective at load bearing”

Actually, despite the weight advantages of steel trusses (around 40% lighter than an equivalent timber truss), steel is incredibly efficient and has impressive load-bearing capacity that makes it a perfect roofing material.

Misconception 4: “Steel is high maintenance and can’t withstand extreme conditions well”

Steel is not susceptible to moisture and swelling, and also does not rot, rust, warp, shrink (and so on). It is non-combustible and preferred by clients who cannot compromise when it comes to safety (both on site and in finished builds).

When you consider that flooding, fires and temperatures in excess of 40 degrees celsius are real occurrences in Australia, these features become even more integral for a build! Working with steel frame roofs when you have weather restrictions is a smart move.

Misconception 5: “Steel is worse for the environment”

Steel saves the need to deplete the environment from natural resources like timber, making it a more responsible, eco-friendly choice.

Steel is also low on life cycle energy use, and can be melted down and reused an infinite number of times (a truly ‘‘100% recyclable’’ option).

Misconception 6: “Steel frame roofing is difficult to install”

Due to the lightweight nature of our steel solutions, assembly is easy and installation is remarkably quick. 

There’s no need for any onsite cutting or fabrication work and steel it’s safer and lighter to handle than timber, for example. 

The work undertaken by our team prior to site delivery ensures precise specifications and a higher degree of accuracy – at Cortek we pride ourselves on being there every step of the way.

Misconception 7: “Steel is more expensive than alternatives like timber”

Initially, a steel roof truss can be more expensive, however, it is often the best value and cheapest option in terms of overall cost because it is lighter and easier to assemble on site. 

Because steel does not change form, it also offers better lifetime value and unlike alternatives like wood it does not split, experience termite or fungus damage, and is weather resistant and fireproof.

Our Cortek steel frame solutions and roofs continually save our clients significant time and help them finish ahead of projected deadlines. 

If you need help determining a cost analysis, please get in touch as we’d be happy to listen to your needs and provide a competitive quote!